The Mesaba Energy Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

The Mesaba Energy Project - Essay Example ironmental compliance technology, namely IGCC that would remove not only air and water pollutants but would capture the CO2 from entering the atmosphere (Mesaba Energy Project – Fact Sheet). There has been a lot of commotion on the viability of the Mesaba energy project. Instead of bringing any benefits of technology, is the project going to make the life of people of Minnesota more vulnerable? There are arguments and counter-arguments against the Mesaba energy project. It is very important to reach a conclusion after checking the pros and cons of the project. It is being said that the Mesaba energy project, based on IGCC technology, would be cleaner than traditional energy-generating coal plants in performance, efficiency and emissions. Again, when we talk of innovative technology, some in-depth knowledge of the working of the gasification process is must because that is going to form basis for advocating the Mesaba energy project, located in north Minnesota. Gasification is a chemical process by which carbonic materials like coal, petroleum coke, biomass, etc. are transformed to a synthesis gas (syngas) through partial oxidation with air, oxygen, and steam by requirement (http://www.clean-energy.us/facts/gasification.htm). The ConocoPhillips E-Gas technology is the basis of gasification process – to convert coal into synthesis gas and clean the gas of impurities before burning. This technology (IGCC) is less pollutant to produce electricity from coal. It is not new, but the application is new – combining gasification technology with well-known combined-cycle technology. This gas is burned to turn generators and produce electricity. Typical coal-burning power plants release mercury, sulfur, nitrogen oxides, and lots of carbon dioxide (http://www.excelsiorenergy.com/igcc/index.html). Mesaba energy project should be favored, as it is practical than other energy sources like nuclear energy, natural gas, biomass, solar and wind energy. Nuclear energy produces

Ethics Awareness Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Ethics Awareness - Essay Example Since ethics is considered as general education, it covers several fields or topics such as cultural diversity, way of life and the traditions in different societies. These allow one to understand the values that are accepted in different societies. In addition, one will have knowledge on the extensive diversity of practices in different societies and this widens ones’ mind with skills and knowledge (Paul & Elder, 2006). General studies provide a wide range of knowledge in that one is capable of understanding or acquiring much knowledge that will help in widening ones’ mind and improve the reasoning capacity of the individual. This is because general studies allow one to acquire knowledge from variety of sources. General studies include reading, observation, listening, experimentation and many others. It may also include research and analysis (Andrew & Martyn, 2004). General studies enable effective communication, creative and critical thinking in situations where technical decisions are needed. This is because it develops the reading, listening and speaking skills that improve communication. On the other hand, an individual who have undergone general studies possesses a lot of knowledge. This knowledge allows one to analyze creatively and critically any situation and give the best solution to the challenges encountered. It also allows good coexistence in the society as one can understand the behavior of the other in the society. General studies enables one to identify and distinguish what is good from the bad and live according to the values that are needed in the society (Andrew & Martyn,

Stop motion animation Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Stop motion animation - Research Paper Example The primary trick of the trade is that the actions of the characters are divided into sequences or increments, and each increment of sequence is then filmed individually, with each shot making up one frame in a continuous collection of frames that mimic true movement (Quinstreet Inc.). The technique is said to involve moving and stopping the characters and then taking shots of the movement on a frame to frame basis, utilizing either plastic or clay puppets in most cases. A variation of stop motion animation is said to be the emergent art of pixilation, where human movements are photographed on a per frame basis (National Film Board of Canada). The observation is that while the practice of stop motion animation seems to be of recent origins, with the popularity of some mainstream films done using various forms of stop motion animation, the art itself is said to have been around for over a century, with so-called object animation being among the earliest forms of stop motion animation to gain traction among artists and film makers. Object animation is as described above, with objects moved minutely and then photographed one frame at a time, and then played together to give the illusion of movement on the screen. It takes a lot of time but is also considered to be among the least difficult among the different forms of stop motion animation too. The difficulty level, however, skyrockets with the addition of more and more characters, whose movements then need to be synchronized to make the animation successful and life-like (Kelly; Priebe). II. History The literature notes that most of the stop motion animation productions that were made in the past one hundred years of the existence of stop motion art were those that were one of two kinds: those that were made in order to accomplish some special effects incorporated into films, or else they were short films formats. Among the primordial films that employ stop motion animation were said to be just experimental setup s to explore movement of different kinds of objects that were placed in front of cameras. These included the 1912 production entitled â€Å"The Automatic Moving Company† as well as the 1913 production called â€Å"Bewitched Matches†. The latter was a production made part of a short film making use of stop-motion animation embedded within a live action feature for the duration of just twelve minutes at the most. This latter production was made with Kinex Studios as the producer for the purposes of being viewed from homes, even as the distribution to theaters was done by George Pal. During the time of these productions' releases the Eastern Europeans experienced the ascension of their own kind of stop motion art, making use of puppets to make short films, pioneered in particular by the Czechs. Elsewhere, there was a simultaneous ,movement to include stop motion sequences in films that were properly classified as belonging to the genre of live action. These were made poss ible by the early innovations of such pioneers as Ray Harryhausen as well as Willis O'Brien, with among the most prominent among the productions in this lineage being the Star Wars films and many other productions in the decade of the 1980's. Meanwhile the industry would go on to give critical acclaim and Academy citations to works such

One-child policy in china Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

One-child policy in china - Research Paper Example Therefore, no family was expected to illegally have a second child after 1979 when one-child policy was introduced, but the minority women are allowed to have a second child (Li, Yi and Zhang 1537). For the past few years in some Chinese cities, couples particularly who are both single children in their homes, that is, have no siblings, have been given a chance of having a second child. China’s national fertility reduced especially in early 1990s after women were instructed to have only one child (Cai 419). This paper provides a very thoughtful discussion on the one-child policy in China by exploring what the policy entails, and evaluating its possible effects to individuals and the government at large. The one-child policy in China today is because of the country’s historical development and also a product of the changing population policies created by the Chinese government (Sun and Zhangling 317). A report by Chinese Health Ministry revealed that about 336 million ab ortions and 222 million sterilizations had been carried out since the implementation of one child policy.  In addition, the ministry of health admits that Chinese doctors conduct over 330m abortions over the forty years since the inception of this policy (Alton 114). One-child policy has become a national policy in China and it promotes late marriage, fewer and healthier births (Su and Macer 18). More so, it drastically reduced China’s fertility rate after the major baby booms of the previous years (Zhan 53). One child policy has been strictly enforced, for instance, the couples who flout the rules possibly face heavy fines, lose their property or even their jobs, and in most cases, going against this policy would call for unaffordable fines. The main goal of this policy was to convince people to understand the advantages of adoption the one-child families but again, those who failed to abide with the new law were punished accordingly (Pascu 104). Some people suggested that , one child policy would be adjusted and modified gradually to promote long-term balanced development of the population in China, and it is obvious that China established its one child policy in order to curb rapid population growth. However, some leaders are afraid that this policy increases the growth of the ageing population that is likely to reduce labor pool and eliminate elderly care issues. As time goes by, Mao Zedong implemented a one-child policy in China to reduce the birth rate further (Von 4). China’s population control policy, one child policy, was introduced in 1979 to curb rapid population growth (BBC News) and to promote economic growth, but this policy has created economic and cultural challenges. At this time, Chinese government was convinced that controlling population would help in alleviating its social, economic as well as environmental problems. Chinese government declared its one child, one couple and this way, it managed to aid economic expansion, and curbing population growth (Nakra 134). Before the introduction of this policy, Chinese central government had introduced the government policy to manage population and was only implemented in the rural areas, but the implementation of one-child policy was extended even in urban areas. In addition, ethnic minorities, disabled people and couples who both lack siblings are also given the option of having two children. Report shows that one child policy

Factors Contributing to the Growth of Enterprise and Small Business Essay Example for Free

Factors Contributing to the Growth of Enterprise and Small Business Essay For example: In USA small businesses represents 99. 7% of all employers, it represents 26% of America’s exports and they create 80% new jobs each year. Growth and success of a business can be measured on many different variables which also includes annual turnover, profit and employment growth. As in other businesses small businesses have been helped by factors which had contributed to its growth. Growth in small businesses has been aided by policy measures by the government which has supported these small businesses, the macro-economic factors, industry factors and firm-specific factors. Having the intention, the ability to setup and grow, getting the right opportunity, easy access to finance, favorable rules and regulations and market conditions which are aimed at small businesses have also led to the growth of these businesses. People are motivated to start their own business where they have greater control of the business, can stay independent , can manage the business in their own way, the financial freedom, the potential income they can earn as their aims are to reach the top of the table, the amount of financial gains they achieve and the joy of winning which is driving factors for the entrepreneurs as it helps satisfy their achievement instincts. Everybody wants to be their own boss and this is also one of the factors for starting up your own business. Lucy Martin, author of â€Å"Make it your Business† said â€Å"Whatever your situation, there is likely to be a combination of ‘push’ factors (propelling you out of current jobs and situations) and ‘pull’ factors (which attract you to self employment)†. Countries with low income or in developing countries more small businesses are being setup because of the push factor as there is a high number of unemployment and people are forced to start-up their own business. In high income countries or developed countries small businesses are increasing due to the pull factor as more and ore people are interested in setting up their own business go become independent. [pic] Sometimes businesses fail or people get frustrated and it is at this time that they need to remind themselves what motivated them to start their own business and this motivation and dedication has led to their growth and success. According to Schumpeter entrepreneur is an innovator as h e/she brings about a change and introduces new technological processes or products and brings in new ideas which are necessary for a business to grow. He also said that only certain people have the ability to become an entrepreneur and to perform extraordinary tasks. Small businesses are the ones that tend to grow faster than large businesses. They indicate higher number of employment growth. Small businesses accounts for more than 50% of the employers in European Economies. France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Germany and UK are the leading economies of the European Union where small Businesses have been thriving for the past two decades and where small businesses accounts for more than 50% of the total employment. In Greece small businesses accounts for as much as 86% of the number of people employed. In 1998, a charter for small business was adopted by European Council which has helped in the huge number of growth in small businesses. Banks are the main source of lending for small businesses and they depend a lot on them for support and cooperation. HSBC was one of the banks which started recognizing small businesses as one of main force in the economy. In UK small business employ about 12 million people so as to recognize and reward these small businesses HSBC launched an award in 1997 Known as â€Å"HSBC small business of the year Award†. HSBC started a new loan program called â€Å"SMALL BUSINESS LOAN† which was quick and easy to arrange loan facility for long term use and had many key benefits. Customers can choose to make their first repayment either one month after taking the borrowing or defer the first repayment until three months after drawing down the loan, Customers had the flexibility to choose the repayment period which was between 12 months and 10 years, the interest rate and repayments will be fixed for the life of the loan. HSBC recently launched a $5 billion working capital fund to ensure small businesses had access to credit during the current economic crisis. In 2008 alone more than 32,000 small businesses have switched to HSBC because of higher lending fees and banks reluctant to extend loans. Growth of small businesses depends on the type of business they are doing, location of the business (a retail shop should be better placed in the residential area) and most importantly the ownership of the business. Governments in some countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia) have gone as far as allocating lands to small business owners; small businesses are encouraged to setup as the government provides 5 years of tax free operation to businesses with potential growth and they provide financial assistance with low interest rates as well as assign a team to monitor the growth of the businesses. Rental and electricity charges are lower for small firms and the government is also getting small construction businesses to get involved in the construction industry by giving them subcontracts for some of the projects. In UK the government started a programme called â€Å"The Business Support Simplification Programme (BSSP)† which aims to make it easier for small companies and entrepreneurs to understand and access government funded grants, subsidies and advice with which to start and grow their businesses. Small Businesses were given incentives and taxes were lowered so as to help them setup. Setting up of this programme had a huge influence on the growth of small Businesses. In March 2008 the Government launched the Enterprise Strategy. The Strategy’s vision is to make the UK the most enterprising economy in the world and the best place to start and grow a business. It was designed to unbolt the entrepreneurship talents in UK, provide a boost to enterprise knowledge and skills, support new and existing small business getting access to funding for start-up and growth and decrease the burden of regulations in place particularly for small firms. The government wants a culture of enterprise and business innovation which will have a great effect on the economic growth. This new strategy has strengthened the Government upport to small businesses and has allowed SME’s to set up more easily and with a proper regulatory body monitoring the growth. Small Businesses are flexible, more focused, specialized and creative and these are some of the reasons why there is an increase in the number of small businesses . Flexibility is what drives some people to start their own business. For example: (if a person is exper t in any subject, field or have some extraordinary skills he/she can work as a consultant where the work timings are set by him/her self and the amount of time spent also). Growth in business demands creativity. It is what will separate you from the competition. A business had to be different as this is the best way to create awareness. Being different and greater creativity are also the factors which has influenced the growth of small businesses. Being innovative and inventing new things is also a factor which drives people to start their own business. People would have some different business idea of doing something in a different way and this leads to creativity and innovation. Small businesses are easy to setup as the cost of starting up is not very high. Government supports the setup of small business because they want to break the monopoly in the market and there will be a decrease in the number of unemployed as more and more people will become self-employed. Lower opportunity cost also attracts people towards entrepreneurship. Economies with high unemployment can be pushed towards entrepreneurship. Examples are Brazil and India. Some people would like to pursue a particular desire or hobby so they enter in to entrepreneurship, it can be leisure driven and it gives flexibility to the owner as there can be work-life balance. More and more specialized people are starting their own business in the field they specialize as they can deliver better services and products. Specializing in a particular product or service gives you the upper hand in the market you are in as you will have the skills and knowledge of the product you are manufacturing or selling. Specialization has also led professional people or extra ordinary skilled people in to starting up their own business. Gaining inspiration from famous entrepreneurs have also led to the factor that people are ready to start up their own business thinking one day they might be like Donald Trump, Hugh Heffner or Richard Branson. Becoming famous and wanting to be recognized in the world is also a strong feeling which had pulled people towards entrepreneurship as there is a strong desire attached with it to pursue their perceived goals. Gaining fame and recognition is one of the strong factors which have led people to start their own business. In general, I conclude by saying that small businesses have been growing because they thrive for independence and the owners usually have a feel good factor while running their own business. It gives them a chance to show the level of creativity in them as they won’t be able to do so while working in other companies. Small Businesses are the key to innovation and without their support the economy would fail drastically. Growth of Small Businesses can be affected due to the current economic crisis but government and banks should support and back small businesses to survive this crisis. Banks like HSBC are already committed to supporting small businesses in this economic crisis and as more and more people getting unemployed governments should give incentives and grants and promote the setup of new businesses and provide assistance and advice on main issues surrounding the small businesses. Small Businesses are not always successful but having proper business idea and creative mind plus knowledge of market will help the entrepreneurs in getting their business on the right track. As SCHUMPTER proposed that it was the exceptional creative drive of independent entrepreneurs that led to the introduction of radical new products and the creation of new industries. This radical drive to invent, innovate and create something which is new to everyone has been one of the major factors in the growth of Small and medium sized businesses (SME’s).

SWOT and PESTEL analysis of StratSim

SWOT and PESTEL analysis of StratSim The StratSim is a growing and wide spread industry around the global among automobile sellers. Notwithstanding the economic and energy instabilities that led to decreased vehicle demand, sales revenues slowly grew as Gross Domestic Products (GDP) increased from period 1- 4, and remained constant in period 5, and inflation rate decreased from 2.5% in period 1 to 1.0% during period 3. However, in some circumstances, sales were increased and/or decreased as firms started making decisions. The 7 competitors were; firm A, B, C, D, E, F and G. Seven vehicle classes include Minivan (M), Family (F), Sports (S), Luxury (L), Utility (U) Economy (E), and Truck (T). Attributes considered were; performance, styling, quality, interior and safety. Furthermore, advertisement plays a significant role especially when firms are striving to create brand image, awareness as well as interests to target customers. Dealerships contributed in generating revenues through sales of a range of vehicles which in turn enabled the firm to increase its market share while maximising shareholders wealth. Firm B has had 3 vehicle classes, namely; Boss -Truck, Boffo Family and Buzzy Economy. 2.0 Strategic Analysis Strategy is the direction and scope of an organisation over the long term, which achieves advantage in a changing environment through the use of resources and competence aiming to fulfil shareholder expectations (Johnson et al, 2006, p 9). Figure 1, processes by which strategy is described and executed Source:http://www.12manage.com/description-deliberate-strategy.html. In a competitive business environment such as StratSim, analysing firms strategies is vital in order to enhance firm performance and customer satisfaction. 2.1 Strategic Intent Firm Bs mission was to become the leader in automobile industry worldwide by offering highly innovative vehicles to diverse customer segments aiming at consistently satisfying their dynamic needs. 2.2 Basic Strategy Firm B strategy was to provide high quality vehicles at premium price while trying to differentiate its vehicles from incumbents to avoid encouraging price war. By doing so, firm B was the leader twice in economy (Buzzy) car in period 2 and 5. To meet diverse customer tastes and preferences, the firm made minor upgrades to its vehicles during decision making periods, e.g. technology, promotion, advertising, etc. 2.3 External Analysis Scanning the macro-environment is vital since there are several factors that hinder firms performance and growth. In order for managers to come up with effective and suitable strategies that will enable the firm exploit overt and hidden opportunities while overcoming threats, those factors need to be thoroughly tackled before decisions are made. The external analyses considered were; The Michael Porters five forces. PESTEL analysis. Opportunities and Threats (OT) from SWOT analysis, And Critical Success Factors (CSF). 2.3.1 PESTEL PESTEL framework is a useful tool that is applied by organisations to analyse the complexity of macro-environment variables. It also provides a picture on how these key factors may influence firms success or failure of its particular strategies in future in order that managers can find ways of overcoming them. PESTEL refers to; political, economic, social, technology, environment and legal. Figure 2, PESTEL Framework Source: (Johnson et al, 2006. p 68) The Organisation Political Taxation policy Government stability Social welfare policies Foreign trade regulations Legal Health and safety Competition law Product safety Employment law Economic factors Business cycle Inflation Interest rates Unemployment GNP trends Money supply Disposable income Environmental Environmental protection laws Waste disposal Energy consumption Sociocultural factors Population Demographic Socio mobility Consumerism Income Distribution Lifestyle changes Level of Education Attitudes to work and leisure Technological Government spending on research Speed of technology transfer New discoveries/developments Government and industry focus on technological effort Rates of obsolescence Political/Legal Since 1960, laws and government regulations have affected the automobile industry (Highfill et al, November, 2004). Political changes may favour or hinder the firms production because anti-pollution laws and taxes can be imposed, and hence firm B should continuously pay special attention to any rules, codes and regulations that dwell on carbon-dioxide emissions. Economic During simulation, firm B had experienced unstable economic growth. Its variables like inflation, interest rates, gas prices, and material costs were fluctuated. These have affected the firms profitability. Social Due to increased health awareness, people tend to change their lifestyles, while turning to low carbon emission vehicles. Also income distribution and demographic changes both affect vehicle production either positively or negatively. Technology Advanced technology has provided both opportunities and threats to the automobile industry. Those who employ it effectively, it enables them to enhance firms efficiency in producing vehicles that appeal to customers whilst lowering costs. So far, internet and firm websites as part of technology have been used by many buyers as a reference tool before making their purchase decisions. Environmental Environmentalists stress on minimising carbon-dioxide emissions, noise as well as air pollution, in order to keep the environment clean. This move no doubt affects vehicle production as well as firm profitability. 2.3.2 Critical Success Factors (CSF) Johnson et al (2009) defined CSF as those product features that are particularly valued by a group of customers and, therefore, where the organisation must excel to outperform competition. CSF comprises; threshold features and differentiators. Source: Johnson et al (2009) CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS (CSF) THRESHOLD FEATURES DIFFERENTIATORS Threshold features These are features that the customer values mostly, and is not likely to buy a product or service that lacks one of them. Firm B, threshold features were; quality, performance, safety and size for all of its three vehicles; family-Boffo, economy-Buzzy and truck-Boss. Differentiators These are customised/added qualities which some customers may or may not consider before purchasing a service or products. Firm B regarded price, styling and interior as differentiators to its vehicles. Differentiators gave difficult moments when trying to distinguish what was preferred most, as many vehicles were similar to competitors after modifications had been made. Innovations are necessary for firms to meet CSF features and outwit their competitors through customer satisfaction. 2.3.3 Porters Five Forces Model The model was developed by Michael Porter in 1980 (Johnson et al, 2006). Since then, the model is applied by firms as a tool to analyse the profit potential while determining the intensity of competition (threats) of an industry, and finally coming up with the right strategies that will support in exploiting opportunities, neutralise threats and hence grow. Figure 3 Porters Five Competitive Forces Model SUPPLIER POWER Switching costs of firms in the industry Presence of substitute inputs Threat of forward integration Supplier concentration Importance of volume to supplier Impact of inputs on cost or differentiation Differentiation of inputs Cost relative to total purchase in industry BARRIERS TO ENTRY Government Policy Capital requirements Access to distribution Economies of scale Switching costs Proprietary learning curve Access to inputs Expected retaliation Brand identity Absolute cost advantages Proprietary products BUYER POWER Price sensitivity Threat of backward integration Substitutes available Bargaining leverage Buyer concentration vs industry Buyer information Buyer volume Buyers incentives Brand identity Product differentiation www.scribd.com DEGREE OF RIVALRY Brand identity Exit barriers Switching costs Product differences Industry growth Fixed cost/ value added Diversity of rivals Industry concentration Corporate stakes Intermittent overcapacity RIVALRY THREAT OF SUBSTITUTES Buyer inclination to substitute Switching costs Price-performance trade-off of substitutes Threat of New Entrants The threat of new entrants in automobile industry is low, since barriers to enter are very high, such as high start-up capital required. Moreover, adequate experience curve, distribution access, economies of scale, strong research and development (RD) and even brand and customer loyalty all of which the incumbents have. It therefore becomes difficult for new entrants to manage compared to incumbents. Bargaining Power of Suppliers Suppliers power in automobile industry is low, since producing a car/vehicle requires a range of inputs (parts) from diverse suppliers. If some inputs are not available in one source, they will be sought from another supplier due to low switching costs. Threat of Substitutes Substitute threats in this industry are likely to be moderate and depend much on customer geographical location. Other customers prefer walking, taking train or riding on a bike. But in Dar es Salaam city for example, people prefer public transport, motorcycles (BAJAJ, known as rickshaw in India) as alternative means to automobile due to increased congestion. Bargaining Power of Buyers In this industry, buyers power is a bit high. Low switching costs from one firm to another seeking for substitutes since most of the customers are price sensitive. For the case of the simulation game we played, most of the products were undifferentiated, so, buyers can easily shift to an alternative producer as well as products when seeking satisfaction. Competitive Rivalry The intensity of competition in automobile industry is high due to lack of strong differentiation strategy and innovation among incumbents, especially in the case of the three vehicle classes, i.e. family, economy and truck, because most of the firms use similar strategies like price; this reduces market growth as well as profitability. 2.3.4 SWOT- Opportunities and Threats Opportunities: Advanced technology Firms can use it more efficiently in enhancing product features that can appeal to the eyes of customers. Also use e-commerce to advertise and sell globally. Bargaining power of suppliers. Low supplier power is an advantage to automobile firms since they can set input prices, and hence be able to enjoy cost advantages while offering good quality products that will satisfy customers. European Union (EU) Automobile manufacturers can use the EU to sell their products. Diversification Diversification can be done to widen the market to other untapped segments like high income earners or go internationally and also locate the firms near raw materials sources where they can enjoy location economies. Differentiation strategy In order to sustain customers, after satisfaction has been met, differentiation strategy can be used as a weapon in delivering a range of added values that surpass those of competitors, since most of the firms use similar strategies. Threats: Bargaining power of buyers Strong bargaining power of buyers associated with low switching costs to alternative products, force suppliers to face an increased competition in order to provide the best that will satisfy their customers. Increased gas prices Gas being one of the operating energy, increased price will affect firms production as well as profitability e.g. in simulation that we played, period 1 $/gal was 3.15 rise to 3.50 in period 5. New laws New rules and regulations on carbon-dioxide emissions in environmental protection hinder production of cars that use petrol engines. World economic recession Recession discourages consumption of luxury goods, and streamlines production while people turn to public transports. High competition Initially, all firms in the StratSim industry were in similar position e.g. financially and other resources; however, this proved difficult when making decisions on how to create demand in order to enhance market shares as well as profits. Each firm was competing. Inflation Inflation started to increase in period 4 from 2.0% to 2.5%, this rise affected consumer prices. Fuel price instability. Rapid change in technology This poses a threat to vehicle production since other substitutes to vehicles may be produced. 2.4 Internal Analysis 2.4.1 Resources and Capabilities These are those which will create a strategic fit in order for the firm to survive and prosper even in a competitive business environment. Lucino Noto, (2007, p 125) Analyzing resources and capabilities: The interface between strategy and the firm THE FIRM Resources and Capabilities Goals and Values Structure and System STRATEGY THE INDUSTRY ENVIRONMENT Customers Competitors suppliers The firm-Strategy Interface The Environment-Strategy Interface Resources Organisation resources are divided into two categories (Johnson et al (2009); Tangible Resources These are firms physical assets. Firm B tangible resources were; Three vehicle classes, each of these represents a unique configuration while targeting different customer segments like value seekers, families, singles, high income and enterprisers (the StratSim Case, 2010). Financial resources, at period 0, each firm were given sales amounted to $ 15.5 billions (the StratSim case, 2010). Manpower, firm B had 4 competent human resources who made diverse valuable decisions and hence became twice the leader of economy car (Buzzy). Intangible Resources. These are non-physical resources such as; information, reputation and knowledge i.e. intellectual capital. (Johnson et al, 2008). Firm B holds a number of unique competences over its rivals. Firm B capabilities were; Quality. Safety. Performance. Style. Interior. 2.4.2 V.R.I.O Are criteria that are used to assess the sustainability of an organisations resources and capability that will enable the firm to achieve durable competitive advantage. V.R.I.O stands for Value, Rarity, Inimitability and Organisation. (Johnson et al, 2008). Value As the game started, firm B had enough resources and capabilities i.e. unique brand name that facilitated it in formulating and implementing different strategies to meet customer needs. But due to increased market demand, demand exceeded production throughout the periods as the firm lacked efficiency. Rareness At the beginning, all firms had a similar starting point which led them to have a low degree of rarity. This positioning by StratSim, made firm B to create more appealing strategies like vehicle enhancements and improvements in terms of its attributes which allowed it to come up with things which turned out to be less common among the firms. Inimitability During simulation game, product imitation was very high since previous results and almost all modifications and other statistics were openly published for other firms to see. This means that competitors could possibly copy other firms techniques. Organisation In StratSim industry, there were 7 firms producing identical vehicles, because they used similar strategies that lacked differentiation. Due to these, it therefore became easy for customers to switch from one firm to another if satisfactions were not yet met. 2.4.3 SWOT- SW SW is a tool that is used in identifying or analysing firms internal strengths and weaknesses and enables it to use the available strengths to minimise or turned those weaknesses to strengths. SW means Strengths and weaknesses. Strengths: Unique brand name Best Motor Works. Unique product names like Buzzy, Boffo, and Boss. Twice leader of Buzzy-Economy car, period 2 and 5. Reliable dealerships. Innovation, almost every decision period, firm B upgraded its vehicle attributes to meet emerging customer needs. Weaknesses: Weak financial position. Unstable growth of market shares. Limited product lines, this means that firm B did not exploit the available opportunities of unsatisfied and potential new customers to launch any new vehicle that would satisfy their needs. 3.0 Decisions 3.1 Technology Firm B upgraded its technology capabilities during decision periods considering dynamic business environment and customer tastes and preferences, while special attention was given to economy (Buzzy) and family (Boffo) cars. Investment in technology facilitated firm B in enhancing its production capacity as well as vehicle attributes that appealed to target customers and hence satisfying their emerging needs (see appendix 2.1) 3.2 Marketing Firm Bs marketing mix was to create leverage with customers and build strong brand loyalty which would enable customers purchase our products even in intense competition as in StratSim industry. Firm Bs unique selling price USP was quality. Quality being the key in our vehicle while charging premium price that enabled Buzzy (economy) car to become the leader in period 2 and 5. Despite this success, it was hard for firm B to survive in just a success of one car brand and become the market leader. Though the marketing mix was thoroughly applied by adding or reducing the number of dealers in each area, increasing dealer discounts and product promotions to attract customers, firm Bs market share was increased and decreased during decisions due to overspending and other factors. (For more marketing and distribution details for period 5, see appendix 2.2 2.3) 3.3 Finance During simulation, firm Bs financial performance was somehow weak despite a slight increase in sales ($). Net income was negative during period 2 and 5 results. It was discovered that one of the problems could possibly have been overspending, however, unit market share increased and total debts continued to decrease (Firm B financial and performance summary period 5, see appendix 3.0). 3.4 Production Throughout all the decision periods, production was increased as well as vehicle attributes to meet customer demand. Though Boss (truck) and Buzzy (economy) vehicles were upgraded in period 4, there were some shortages with regard to Boss vehicle model; this means that if the firm was given a chance to continue making decisions, it could probably increase production to meet the demand (see appendix 4.0). 4.0 Conclusion Firm Bs mission was to become the leader in automobile industry worldwide by offering highly innovative vehicles to diverse customer segments aiming at consistently satisfying their dynamic needs. Unfortunately, firm B did not meet its expectations. Though it became the leader twice in Buzzy (economy) car, this means that its strategies fit in the economy car brand market, having had success in one vehicle does not guarantee survival, and this is why firm Bs income and market share fluctuated. The firm was not yet pretty sure of what contributed to the unstable financial performance, though the firm speculated that overspending was one of the major problems. 4.1 What I Have Learned I learned that, in practical business, taking risks is only way to achieve success. In StratSim industry, for each time period, market research had identified some potential new customers whose needs were not yet satisfied by current vehicle (the StratSim case, 2010). But firm B overlooked this market potential to timely take advantage of launching new vehicle models in order to exploit these opportunities and hence increase its turnover and profit margins. 5.0 Reference and Bibliography: Johnson G, Scholes K, and Whittington R, (2006), Exploring Corporate Strategy, 7th Edition, Prentice Hall. Johnson G, Scholes K, and Whittington R, (2009), Exploring Corporate Strategy, Prentice Hall. Highfill D, Baki M, Copus S, Green M, Smith J and Whineland M, (November, 2004). Automotive Industry Analysis-GM, DaimlerChrysler, Toyota, Ford, Honda, overview of industry analysis, available at http://www.academicmind.com/unpublishedpapers/business/management/2004-11-000aaa-automotive-industry-analysis.html. Accessed on 19/11/1010. The StratSim Case (2010), Automobile industry. Lucino Noto, (2007), Analysing resources and capabilities: the interface between strategy and the firm, available at. http://www.blackwellpublishing.com/grant/files/CSAC05.pdf . Figure , Porters Five Forces Available at www.scribd.com/doc/16998313/Diagram-of-Porters. Accessed on 20/11/2010. 6.0 APPENDIXES: 1. DECISION SUMMARY FIRM B, FOR PERIOD 5 Product Development Dev Ctr Project Class Status Size HP Int Sty Saf Qua Curr Exp 1 Buzzy Economy upgr: launch Now 10 120 2 2 2 2 $275 2 Boss Truck upgr: launch Now 70 200 3 3 2 2 $275 3 (unused) Total (mill.) $551 Consumer Marketing Budget (mill.) Regional Corp. Adv. $48 Direct Mail $6 Public Relations $12 Total $66 Direct Mail Targets: Value Seekers(1), Families(2), High Income(4), Enterprisers(5) Product Marketing Vehicle Platform MSRP Dealer Disc. Adv. (mill.) Adv. Theme Promo. (mill.) Boffo No Change $20,400 15.0% $34 Safety $29 Boss Upgraded $20,499 13.0% $28 Perform $15 Buzzy Upgraded $11,550 12.0% $33 Quality $20 Total $95 $64 Plant Capacity Current Capacity (000s) 1,350 Capacity Change (000s) 0 Vehicle Production Vehicle Previous Sales (000s) Current Inventory (000s) Scheduled Production (000s) Flexible Production Retooling Costs (mill.) Boffo 646 25 671 X $0 Boss 200 *13 213 X $80 Buzzy 298 *109 345 X $123 Total 1,144 147 1,229 $203 *Vehicle being upgraded: this inventory will be written off. Be sure to produce enough to match forecast. Dealerships North South East West Total Dealer Inc./Dec. 10 9 11 12 42 Training and Support (mill.) $34 Financing Amount ($ mill.) Bonds Issued $0 Stock Issued $0 Dividends Paid $100 StratSim Ind:ind1 Firm:b Period 4 2. RESULTS FOR PERIOD 5 2.1 Technology Capabilities Period 5 Firm Ratings (1=low capability) Dev. Centers Interior Styling Safety Quality Max. Feasible 5 11 12 11 12 Firm A 3 4 6 4 7 Firm B 3 4 6 5 7 Firm C 2 4 7 6 6 Firm D 2 4 6 5 6 Firm E 2 6 8 6 8 Firm F 2 4 6 4 6 Firm G 3 5 8 7 9 Tech Dim Considerations Interior flexibility of cargo space Styling general curb appeal, styling, handling, finish Safety structural design, braking system, safety features Quality overall reliability, durability, consistency of products StratSim Ind:ind1 Firm:b Period 5 2.2 Marketing Detail Period 5 Consumer Budget (mill.) Company Owned /Fleet Budget (mill.) Regional Corp. Adv. $48 Direct Sales Force $0 Direct Mail $6 Direct Mail $0 Public Relations $12 Total $66 Total $0 Vehicle Val Mkt Share MSRP Dealer Disc. Avg Sell Price Adv. (mill.) Adv. Theme Promo. (mill.) Days Inv. Buzzy 2.4% $11,550 12.0% $10,572 $33 Quality $20 18 Boffo 9.4% $20,400 15.0% $18,749 $34 Safety $29 0 Boss 3.2% $20,499 13.0% $19,859 $28 Perform $15 0 Total $95 $64 StratSim Ind:ind1 Firm:b Period 5 2.3 Distribution Detail Period 5 North South East West Total Full Coverage 200 250 150 200 800 Established Dealers 137 137 133 133 540 Coverage 69% 55% 89% 67% 68% Planned Openings 10 9 11 12 42 Support/Dealer (000s) $150.6 $150.6 $153.2 $153.2 $151.9 Units/Dealer 2,187 2,284 2,389 2,756 2,401 Sales/Dealer (mill.) $36.9 $38.9 $40.2 $46.3 $40.5 Service/Dealer (mill.) $1.4 $1.5 $1.6 $1.7 $1.5 Gross/Dealer (mill.) $3.3 $3.6 $3.6 $4.1 $3.7 Dealer Rating 59 60 60 61 60 StratSim Ind:ind1 Firm:b Period 5 2.4 Product Contribution Period 5 Firm B Product Contribution Vehicle Units (000s) Dealer Sales (mill.) Direct Sales (mill.) COGS (mill.) Gross Margin (mill.) Adv Promo (mills.) After Mkting (mill.) Boffo 734 $12721 $0 $9797 $2924 $63 $2861 Boss 234 $4179 $0

Sickle Cell Anaemia :: Free Essays

Sickle Cell Anaemia The disorder affects the red blood cells, which contain a special protein called haemoglobin . The function of haemoglobin is to carry oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body. People with Sickle Cell Anaemia have Sickle haemoglobin which is different from the normal haemoglobin. When sickle haemoglobin gives up its oxygen to the tissues, it sticks together to form long rods inside the red blood cells making these cells rigid and sickle-shaped. Normal red blood cells can bend and flex easily.Blocked blood vessels Because of their shape, sickled red blood cells can't squeeze through small blood vessels as easily as the almost donut-shaped normal cells. This can lead to these small blood vessels getting blocked that then stops the oxygen from getting through to where it is needed. This in turn can lead to severe pain and damage to organs. Everyone has two copies of the gene for haemoglobin; one from their mother and one from their father. If one of these genes carries the instructions to make sickle haemoglobin (HbS) and the other carries the instructions to make normal haemoglobin (HbA) then the person has Sickle Cell Trait and is a carrier of the sickle haemoglobin gene. This means that this person has enough normal haemoglobin in their red blood cells to keep the cells flexible and they don't have the symptoms of the sickle cell disorders. They do however have to be careful when doing things where there is less oxygen than normal such as scuba diving, activities at high altitude and under general anaesthetics. If both copies of the haemoglobin gene carry instructions to make sickle haemoglobin then this will be the only type of haemoglobin they can make and sickled cells can occur. These people have Sickle Cell Anaemia and can suffer from anaemia and severe pain. These severe attacks are known as Crises. Over time Sickle Cell sufferers can experience damage to organs such as liver, kidney, lungs, heart and spleen. Death can be a result.